Stones River National Battlefield
Explore a pivotal Civil War battlefield with a visitor center, museum, and marked trails, plus a humbling national cemetery.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration
Stones River National Battlefield
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a pivotal Civil War battlefield with a visitor center, museum, and marked trails, plus a humbling national cemetery.
"Pretty immersive experience. I can clearly see how the landscape would give an advantage in battle."
🚗 Drive or Walk the Tour
Utilize the marked stops and audio guide for a comprehensive tour, or explore the trails on foot . :walking: :car:
🎧 Audio Guide is Key
The phone guide system provides narratives for each area, bringing the battlefield's history to life . :iphone:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Hazen Brigade Monument
Battlefield
The oldest Civil War monument still standing in its original battlefield location.

Stones River National Cemetery
Across the street from the battlefield
A humbling and solemn resting place for soldiers who fought and died in the battle.

Visitor Center & Museum
Main entrance
Informative exhibits and helpful staff detailing the battle's significance and impact.

Slaughter Pen Area
Battlefield trail
Experience the terrain that offered strategic advantages during one of the Civil War's bloodiest battles.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for History & Nature
Navigating the Battlefield
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive or Walk the Tour
Utilize the marked stops and audio guide for a comprehensive tour, or explore the trails on foot.
:walking: :car:🎧 Audio Guide is Key
The phone guide system provides narratives for each area, bringing the battlefield's history to life.
:iphone:🌿 Watch for Ticks
Be aware of ticks, especially during warmer months, and take precautions when hiking the trails.
:bug:🏛️ Visit the Cemetery
Don't miss the National Cemetery across the street for a humbling historical perspective.
:gravestone:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive or Walk the Tour
Utilize the marked stops and audio guide for a comprehensive tour, or explore the trails on foot.
:walking: :car:🎧 Audio Guide is Key
The phone guide system provides narratives for each area, bringing the battlefield's history to life.
:iphone:🌿 Watch for Ticks
Be aware of ticks, especially during warmer months, and take precautions when hiking the trails.
:bug:🏛️ Visit the Cemetery
Don't miss the National Cemetery across the street for a humbling historical perspective.
:gravestone:📅 Check for Events
Living history events and ceremonies offer a unique and immersive way to experience the battlefield.
:calendar:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Stones River National Battlefield for its historical significance, informative visitor center, and well-maintained grounds. The audio guide system and marked trails enhance the immersive experience, while the adjacent National Cemetery offers a humbling perspective. Some visitors note the presence of ticks during warmer months.
"Nice piece of history here. I always enjoy learning about these places and arrived as they were starting a reenactment. Nice little museum and gift shop. There is also the cemetery across the street that is quite humbling in my opinion. Check it out sometime!!"
Shaun Pelkey
"Pretty immersive experience. I can clearly see how the landscape would give an advantage in battle. Especially around the "Slaughter Pen" area. I expected a lot less and ended up spending almost three hours touring the multiple exhibits and using the phone guide system. There are 5 designated stops for parking and touring and multiple trails that are marked and clear. Ticks are out in abundance today but other than that this was a great little history buffer."
Michael Richardson
"Very nice visitor center and very informative attendees. Cost is free. You can drive or walk the main tour. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did."
Chad Hendershot
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Stones River National Battlefield is located in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. It's easily accessible by car, with clear signage directing visitors from major roadways. The visitor center is the primary entry point for most visitors.
Yes, there are multiple designated parking areas throughout the battlefield, allowing visitors to stop and explore different points of interest. Some trails are paved and drivable, while others are dirt paths.
Public transportation options to Stones River National Battlefield are limited. It is best accessed by private vehicle. Local ride-sharing services may be an option from Murfreesboro.
The visitor center and some paved trails are generally accessible. However, some of the natural trails may be uneven or unpaved, which could pose challenges for wheelchairs and strollers.
Visitors can drive to designated stops and explore on foot, or follow the marked trails. An audio guide system, accessible via phone, provides historical context for each area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Stones River National Battlefield is free. The visitor center, museum, and grounds are open to the public without charge.
The park grounds are typically open from dawn to dusk. The visitor center and museum have specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's advisable to check the official National Park Service website for the most current hours.
While there isn't always a formal guided tour, park rangers often lead interpretive programs. Checking the schedule at the visitor center or the park's website is recommended to enhance your visit.
Yes, Stones River National Battlefield occasionally hosts living history events and reenactments, particularly around significant dates like the anniversary of the battle.
These events offer a unique glimpse into the past.Yes, the National Cemetery is adjacent to the battlefield and is also free to visit. It's a significant part of the historical site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore the battlefield trails, visit the informative visitor center and museum, see historical monuments like the Hazen Brigade Monument, and walk through the National Cemetery.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits and driving or walking the battlefield tour. You could easily spend longer if you enjoy hiking the extensive trails.
Yes, there are several marked hiking trails, ranging from paved paths to dirt trails, offering opportunities to explore the battlefield and surrounding nature.
Dogs are allowed on the trails at Stones River National Battlefield but must be kept on a leash. They are not permitted in buildings like the visitor center.
The Slaughter Pen is a historically significant area of the battlefield known for intense fighting due to its terrain, which offered tactical advantages.
📸 📸 Photography
The Hazen Brigade Monument, the rolling hills of the battlefield, the solemn rows of headstones in the National Cemetery, and the natural landscapes along the trails offer excellent photographic opportunities.
As a National Park Service site, drone usage is typically restricted. It's best to check the official NPS regulations for Stones River National Battlefield regarding drone operation.
Visitors often capture historical monuments, the cemetery, and the natural beauty of the landscape. Many also focus on capturing the atmosphere and historical significance of the site.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for landscape and monument photography. Golden hour can create a dramatic atmosphere.
If you are photographing individuals or families for personal use, it's generally acceptable. For commercial photography, permits may be required. Always be respectful of other visitors and the solemn nature of the site.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider utilizing the audio guide system, which can make the historical narratives more accessible and engaging for younger minds. The National Cemetery, while somber, can also be a learning opportunity about remembrance and sacrifice. Look for any ranger-led programs that might be tailored for families. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and be mindful of ticks, especially during warmer months.
🚶♀️ History Enthusiasts & Reenactment Fans
Keep an eye out for special events like living history demonstrations and reenactments, which provide an immersive experience and a chance to see history come alive. These events can offer unique perspectives and insights that go beyond static exhibits. The National Cemetery also provides a profound connection to the human element of the conflict.
🌳 Nature Lovers & Hikers
Consider visiting during the spring or fall for pleasant hiking weather and vibrant natural scenery. Remember to wear appropriate footwear and take precautions against ticks. The trails offer a refreshing way to experience the site, combining outdoor activity with a connection to history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Battle of Stones River: A Turning Point
The battlefield itself is a testament to the ferocity of the fighting. Areas like the 'Slaughter Pen' highlight the challenging terrain that played a significant role in the battle's dynamics. The landscape, with its rolling hills and strategic natural features, would have been a formidable obstacle for soldiers. Much of the original battlefield has unfortunately been lost to development over time, a point noted by historians.
Today, Stones River National Battlefield preserves a significant portion of this historic ground. Visitors can explore marked trails, learn from the visitor center's exhibits, and reflect at the National Cemetery, which honors the fallen soldiers. The site serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made during this critical period in American history.
Exploring the Battlefield Trails and Nature
Many visitors enjoy the hiking opportunities, with trails ranging in length and difficulty. The 'Stones River Battlefield Trail Loop' is a popular choice, offering a substantial hike. Along these paths, you might encounter diverse flora and fauna, including interesting plants like milkweed and even wildlife such as deer. The peaceful atmosphere of the trails makes it a great spot for a reflective walk or a nature photography outing.
When planning your hike, it's important to be prepared. As with many outdoor areas, ticks can be present, so taking precautions is advised. The trails are generally well-marked, making it easy to navigate and enjoy the historical and natural aspects of the battlefield.
The Stones River National Cemetery
Walking through the cemetery offers a moment of quiet reflection and a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made. It's a place where visitors can pay their respects and connect with the history of the conflict on a personal level. The sheer number of graves underscores the battle's intensity and its lasting impact.
Many visitors find the cemetery to be a deeply moving experience, often described as humbling. It's an integral part of the Stones River National Battlefield experience, providing a complete picture of the historical event and its aftermath.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit